Kauai, Hawaii
View this 80-foot double-tiered waterfall directly from the roadside lookout. Located just outside Lihue, it is one of Kauai's most accessible natural sites.
4.8 from 848 traveller reviews on Viator
Tickets & tours
From self-guided audio drives to kayak adventures on the Wailua River.
Most bookedRainbow Kayak Tours has been providing guided tours of the Wailua River for 20 years. Our experienced guides are well versed in the flora and fauna of the area, as well...
Small groupThe only way to see and appreciate our "Island Paradise" called Kauai, is from above and one of our airplanes is the best way to do it! Enjoy the breathtaking scenery...
Top ratedExperience Kauai’s natural beauty and local culture in one day, with a local guide connecting the sights through island stories. Cruise the Wailua River to Fern Grotto,...
Explore
Discover the viewpoints and nearby attractions in Wailua River State Park.
No hiking required.
The official viewing deck sits right next to the parking lot.
Plan your visit
Plan for 15 to 30 minutes at the lookout to take photos and enjoy the view.
Arrive early in the morning to secure parking and see rainbows in the mist.
Drive to the end of Highway 583 (Ma'alo Road). The lot is small and fills quickly.
Non-residents pay a $10 parking fee plus $5 per person for entry via a credit card kiosk.
Wailua Falls is a dramatic 80-foot waterfall on the South Fork of the Wailua River. It plunges in two distinct tiers, which often merge into one powerful cascade after heavy rain. The falls are famous for appearing in the opening credits of the classic TV show Fantasy Island.
Unlike many waterfalls on Kauai, you do not need to hike to see it. The official viewpoint is completely paved and sits just steps from the parking lot. This makes it an easy stop for families and visitors of all mobility levels. Great for Kids
Because access is so easy, the small parking area at the end of Highway 583 gets busy. Non-residents must pay state park fees via an automated kiosk. Always stay behind the guardrails; the old trail to the base is officially closed and highly dangerous. Hike to Bottom
We check if tours just pass by or include time for photos.
We highlight what is included and if park fees are extra.
We review recent ratings to warn you about potential issues.
From Viator
848 reviews of the expert guided kayak on Viator
Thomas, our guide was wonderful. Unfortunately, due to the damage caused by the storm we were unable to hike to the waterfall. But Thomas made our kayaking adventure a truly memorable experience . Would definitely recommend.
Sierra was an excellent guide for our trip! She instructed, educated, and entertained us throughout the excursion. The kayaking and hiking activities were fun, the scenery beautiful, and the pineapple treat delicious.
Fun DIY activity! Be mindful the waterfall hike is closed due to the hurricane and there’s a large barge that you share the river with.
Johnny made everything easy and provided great instructions on awesome places for us to explore and told us what to expect
John and Christy were wonderful. We had enjoyed our day and wonderful photo opportunities. John very knowledgeable about history
Good tour, friendly guide, & safe driving up n down mountain.
Single engine, Cessna, carried, six passengers plus pilot. Headphones reduce engine noise while giving the ability both to hear the pilot explain the view and allow the guests to converse with one another.
From takeoff to landing, we thoroughly enjoyed the flight and felt comfortable with the young, native Kaua’ian pilot! He narrated all of the impressive sights on both sides of the island and took us across the stunning rainy midlands. Tour company was communicative from start to finish. Thank you, Zachary!
It's a great way to see areas you may otherwise miss. Fun facts, stories, and local legends keep you company while you drive.
Travel tips
Parking & FeesCurrent 2026 parking and entry fees for visiting Wailua Falls.Read 
Hike to BottomLearn why hiking to the bottom of Wailua Falls is illegal and dangerous.Read 
Best TimeFind out when to visit Wailua Falls to see rainbows and beat crowds.Read 
Fantasy Island WaterfallLearn about the Kauai waterfall featured in the Fantasy Island TV show.Read 
Great for KidsFind out why Wailua Falls is one of Kauai's most kid-friendly spots.Read 
Wailua vs 'Opaeka'aCompare Wailua Falls and 'Opaeka'a Falls to plan your visit.Read No. Hiking down to the base is extremely dangerous, illegal, and strictly prohibited by the state. The old trail is fenced off and unmaintained. Always view the falls from the safe, paved roadside area. Hike to Bottom
For non-residents, entry costs $5 per person, and parking is an additional $10 per vehicle. You must pay by credit card at the automated kiosk. Hawaii residents enter and park for free with a valid state ID. Parking & Fees
Wailua Falls is approximately 80 to 85 feet tall. While some older sources inaccurately claim it is 173 feet, the actual drop of the double-tiered cascade is just over 80 feet.
No reservations are required. However, the parking lot is small and fills up quickly, so arriving early in the morning is recommended.
No. Because it is illegal to hike down to the base of the waterfall, you cannot access the water there to swim. Jumping or diving from the top is also highly dangerous and prohibited.
No, they are different waterfalls on the same river system. Wailua Falls is viewable from a roadside lookout. Secret Falls (Uluwehi Falls) requires a kayak trip up the river and a hike to reach.
Book a tour or read our planning guide to map out your day on Kauai.
